Putting is one of the most important parts of a golf game and is often overlooked by golf hobbyists. Mastering this skill can help you gain confidence on the course and maybe even win your next weekend round. A skilled golfer will master the control, grip, stance, swing and strategy of the putter. There is a lot more to it than just swinging to putter and hoping for the best. Uncross those fingers and master the skill of golf.
Aspiring golfers can improve their ability on the putty green with a few simple tips and tricks.
Invest in a high-quality putter
You need to find the right putter for you before you can begin improving on your strategy, grip and stance. There are a number of putters to choose from for varying budgets and golfing styles. Choose from putters with a blade, mid-mallet or full mallet. Visit your local golfing store to find the best putter for you and your swinging style.
Learn to grip your club properly
An open or closed putter at impact can cause you to miss out on a successful putt. You need to hold the putter in the right way so that the handle of the grip runs through your wrist joint in both hands. When your wrists flick, the putter face should aim at the hole, and you will make a successful putt. Win, win!
Learn to judge distances
The best way to judge a distance is from the side of the putt, not behind the ball. Move the putter from the ball to the hole to calculate the accurate distance. Close your eyes, raise your arms and point at where the target lies. When you open your eyes, you can see how close you were to the target and identify your distance-judgement skills.
Remember, you want a smooth acceleration of the putter towards your target – not a ‘hit.’
Quiet wrists
Flicking your wrists can make you an inconsistent putter. Keep your wrists consistent throughout the putt to guide the ball on its path. Flicking your wrists can impact where the face of your putter points, the club head speed and putter loft.
Practise regularly by setting up targets at home
Set up some targets in your garden at home so you can squeeze in putting practise between meetings or errands. Home practise is the perfect place to learn how to judge distances accurately. For the most part, players are often ‘depth-deficient’ as they judge the hole to be closer than it really is. Try to experiment with different distances at home and improve your judging skills.
Remember to consult your local golf equipment store to find the right putter for you. Practise in your garden and then get out on the course and show off your new putting skills!
